Huge stretch for Rob Gronkowski to go Week 1

It is "not realistic" to expect New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski, who underwent offseason back and forearm surgery, to be ready to play in the team's regular-season opener against the Bills in Buffalo, sources familiar with the situation said Monday.

"It's a huge stretch to think he could play against the Bills," the source said.

Despite that, another source said Gronkowski "looks great, is doing great" during his workouts at the Patriots' training facility, where he has been running and lifting.

Fantasy Impact:

The story says progress is being made, but the big question right now is if he'll stay on the roster or placed on the PUP list. Of course, the PUP list would sideline him for the first six games of the season. Where to take Gronk is one of the bigger questions of the draft this year. Even missing the first six games, he'll make an impact for your team when he finally does get on the field. If he lasts to the 5th, we're okay with him there. Unfortunately, knowing the Patriots as we do, most fantasy drafts will likely be over by the time we find out anything. Zach Sudfeld could be a nice late-round option in drafts, but either way, expect the Pats to run more and/or use more three WR sets.